Global Conservation Campaigns Team Intern
The Nature Conservancy
01.2026 - 01.2026
Hi, I’m
METI DINKU
Summary
Student with proven ability to learn rapidly and contribute effectively to team objectives. History of leading successful projects through strong communication and collaboration skills. Consistent academic excellence combined with a commitment to integrity and professionalism.
Work History
School of Data ScienceCharlottesville
Student Intern
11.2025 - 05.2026
Job overview
- Helped orchestrate Datapalooza 2025, UVA School of Data Science's annual flagship event, which drew 350+ person attendees and 100+ virtual participants across students, faculty, alumni, industry partners, and community members, featuring ~30 expert speakers across multiple interdisciplinary breakout sessions
- Provide front-desk coverage, greet visitors, and assist daily office operations including end-to-end event production for Student Affairs program, setup and on-site coordination of workshops and community events
The Nature ConservancyCharlottesville
Global Conservation Campaigns Team Intern
01.2026 - 01.2026
Job overview
- Supported strategic research and message development for state and local conservation funding initiatives, contributing to campaigns focused on protecting land, water, and oceans while gaining exposure to ballot measure strategy and public opinion analysis
- Collaborated with a 14-person team of campaign consultants serving TNC state chapters nationwide, participating in strategic planning meetings and assisting with feasibility research for legislative initiatives and conservation funding campaigns
UVA Democratic Futures ProjectCharlottesville
Research Assistant, Sudan Project
01.2025 - 10.2025
Job overview
- Conducted research on exclusion of youth from post-revolutionary governance in Sudan, analyzing its impact on political instability and ongoing conflict
- Proposed policy recommendations on active inclusion of youth and women in governance and peace processes, aimed at informing national and international debates on creating more representative political systems in post-conflict Sudan
National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF)Washington
Event Intern
07.2024 - 10.2024
Job overview
- Facilitated two NMQF Connect Mini-Clinics in Oakland and Houston, reaching 365+ individuals with health screenings, education, and patient navigation services, resulting in $53,397 investment in local vendors and partnerships
- Coordinated venue selection, equipment setup, catering, and transportation for community events and governmental meetings, enhancing attendee experience and engagement
Education
University of VirginiaCharlottesville, VA
Bachelor of Arts from Global Development Studies & Foreign Affairs, Public Policy
05-2027
University Overview
- Award & Scholarship: Dean's List, Rush Family UVA Alumni Scholarship
- GPA: 3.5/4.00
Skills
- Research writing
- Research proficiency
- Policy development
- Project management
- R-Studio
- STATA
- SPSS IBM
- Excel
- Microsoft Office Suite
- PowerPoint
- Event planning
- Analytical mindset
- Analytical mindset
Leadership And Professional Development
Kappa Omega Alpha (KOA), Member, Charlottesville, VA, 10/25- Present
- Engaged in policy discussions, research projects, and speaker events focused on domestic and international affairs, fostering critical analysis and collaboration across disciplines
- Contributed to leadership and civic engagement initiatives that promote policy literacy, ethical governance, and professional development among members of the UVA community
Management Leadership for Tomorrow (MLT), Career Prep Fellow, Bethesda, MD, 02/25-Present
- Selected from a highly competitive pool of 3000+ applicants for an elite 18+-month leadership development program designed to accelerate careers in business
- Engage in rigorous business case studies and high-impact projects to strengthen problem-solving, analytical, and strategic communication skills
- Collaborate with Fortune 500 executives and industry leaders through exclusive seminars, networking events, and professional development workshops, gaining insights into corporate strategy and leadership.
Timeline
Student Intern
School of Data Science
11.2025 - 05.2026
Research Assistant, Sudan Project
UVA Democratic Futures Project
01.2025 - 10.2025
Event Intern
National Minority Quality Forum (NMQF)
07.2024 - 10.2024
University of Virginia
Bachelor of Arts from Global Development Studies & Foreign Affairs, Public Policy